Editorial

Reviews

Venue, event and scene reviews for Brisbane locals and visitors.

★ 5

# Earl Sweatshirt & MIKE at The Tivoli Set to Deliver One of Brisbane’s Most Anticipated Hip-Hop Events

Fans of underground hip-hop and experimental rap can expect an unforgettable night as Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE take over The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley for a highly anticipated Open Season performance alongside Chef Chung and C.FRIM. Known for their introspective lyricism, atmospheric production, and deeply influential sound, Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE have become two of the most respected voices in modern alternative hip-hop. Their music blends raw storytelling, abstract beats, and emotionally charged performances that resonate strongly with fans of authentic and forward-thinking rap music.…

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★ 4.7

Gil Scott-Heron Reimagined

# Gil Scott-Heron Reimagined: Brian Jackson and Yasiin Bey Bring a Legendary Legacy to Brisbane Music lovers are set for a powerful and unforgettable night as Brian Jackson and Yasiin Bey come together to celebrate the legacy of Gil Scott-Heron at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley on Monday, 25 May 2026. Presented as part of Open Season, this special performance honours one of the most influential voices in modern music, poetry, and political expression. Gil Scott-Heron’s groundbreaking fusion of spoken word, jazz, soul, blues, and…

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★ 5

Twenty years on, and Black Fingernails, Red Wine still hits like a freight train live

Twenty years on, and Black Fingernails, Red Wine still hits like a freight train live. Eskimo Joe’s sold-out show at The Triffid last night felt less like a nostalgia tour and more like a reminder of why the album became one of Australia’s defining rock records in the first place. From the moment the band walked onstage, the room was electric. Kav Temperley’s vocals were raw and powerful, Stu MacLeod’s guitar tone cut through perfectly, and Joel Quartermain drove the whole set with relentless energy…

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★ 5

Musica Viva Australia 2026 Set to Bring World-Class Classical Performance to Brisbane Powerhouse

Musica Viva Australia 2026 Set to Bring World-Class Classical Performance to Brisbane Powerhouse Classical music lovers are in for a memorable night as Musica Viva Australia returns to Brisbane Powerhouse in Brisbane for a special 2026 performance season celebrating extraordinary musicianship, timeless compositions, and live chamber music at its finest. Known as Australia’s leading presenter of chamber music, Musica Viva Australia has spent decades bringing internationally acclaimed ensembles and solo performers to audiences across the country. The upcoming Brisbane performance promises another captivating evening of…

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★ 4.7

Koe Wetzel — Australian Tour 2026

Koe Wetzel tore through Brisbane last night with the kind of loose, rowdy energy that makes a country-rock show feel more like a full-blown Friday night blowout than a polished arena production. Playing to a packed room at Fortitude Music Hall, the Texas outlaw delivered a set that swung hard between gritty Southern rock, country heartbreak and beer-soaked singalongs. From the opening tracks, the crowd was fully in it — shouting every lyric back at the stage, drinks flying in the air and the floor…

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★ 4.8

Josh Tatofi performing on the Looking For Love Tour

Josh Tatofi delivered a soulful and heartfelt performance on the Looking For Love Tour, blending smooth island reggae, contemporary Hawaiian music, and emotional storytelling into a night that felt both intimate and uplifting. From the moment he stepped on stage, the connection with the crowd was obvious, with fans singing along to nearly every song and feeding off the warm, family-like atmosphere throughout the show. Vocally, Josh Tatofi was outstanding live. His rich, powerful voice sounded just as polished in person as it does on…

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★ 4.3

West End Weekend: Small venues, big atmosphere

West End is widely regarded as one of Brisbane’s most vibrant and culturally distinct inner-city suburbs, offering a mix of quirky charm, diverse dining, and live music. Reviews highlight its eclectic atmosphere, characterized by independent boutiques, international restaurants, and a blend of long-term residents and a growing hipster demographic. Key highlights from visitor reviews include: Dining and Nightlife: The suburb is renowned for its café scene and diverse food options, with Boundary Street and Vulture Street being central hubs. Popular venues include Brisbane Brewing Co.,…

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★ 4.6

Big-room energy at The Fortitude Music Hall

The Fortitude Music Hall is a highly regarded live music venue located in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics. Opened in 2019 by former Powderfinger bassist John Collins to replace the old Festival Hall, it is a popular destination for both local and international touring acts. Venue Overview & Capacity The venue features a capacity of approximately 3,800 people, typically configured with 3,000 standing areas and 800 seated spots in the tiered upstairs balcony. While the exterior appears modest, the…

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★ 4.5

The Tivoli — A True Brisbane Icon

The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley is a historic, intimate live music venue and theatre in Brisbane, known for its art deco charm and standing-room concerts. TripAdvisor ratings are mixed, averaging 3.9/5 stars based on 77 reviews, with visitors praising the atmosphere and sound quality but criticizing cleanliness, crowding, and service efficiency. Pros Atmosphere and Acoustics: Reviewers frequently highlight the intimate setting and excellent sound quality, noting it is superior to larger auditoriums. Many appreciate the "old school" vibe and the ability to get close to…

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